Faith
Is it possible to give a baby two names?
Question
Hello,
I would like to ask whether the name Israel Yaakov is suitable as a baby’s name. Is it possible to give a baby two names? And what is the source for giving a baby two names?
Thank you.
Answer
Hello,
1. The names Israel Yaakov are very good.
2. It is possible to give a baby two names. However, some say it is advisable to be careful to call the child by both names at least from time to time, because by pronouncing a person’s name one touches the channels of abundance of that person and activates them, and if one omits part of the full name, one harms their good influence.
However, it should be emphasized that this is only a matter of preference, but according to the strict law there is no obligation whatsoever in this (see Sefer Shemot BaAretz, page 88, in the name of the Grach Kanievsky shlita).
3. There is a very lengthy discussion of the source for giving a baby two names; see Shu"t Noda BiYehuda, second edition (part Orach Chaim, siman 113), Shu"t Chasam Sofer, part Even HaEzer, part 2 (siman 18), Shu"t Mishneh Halachot, part 5 (siman 215), Shu"t LeHorot Natan, part 9 (end of siman 7), Shu"t UDrashtah VeChakartah, part 4 (part Yoreh Deah, siman 38), and Sefer Derech Sicha, part 1 (pages 29-30).
With blessings,
Hillel Meirs
